Overview
Not all party wall surveyors approach matters in the same way. Some focus on resolution. Others appear to focus on billable hours, unnecessary correspondence and escalation.
That should concern both building owners and adjoining owners.
The surveyor's duty
A party wall surveyor is appointed under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Their role is not to act as an agent or advocate.
They must:
- act impartially;
- resolve disputes within their jurisdiction;
- keep costs proportionate;
- focus on what matters under the Act.
Where things go wrong
Fee-driven surveyors may:
- encourage unnecessary separate appointments;
- inflate correspondence;
- overcomplicate straightforward issues;
- insist on unnecessary engineer input;
- delay awards without good reason;
- escalate minor points to the third surveyor;
- create fear rather than clarity.
This behaviour rarely improves protection. It usually increases cost and damages neighbour relations.
The hidden cost
Poor surveyor conduct can lead to:
- higher professional fees;
- delayed works;
- increased legal risk;
- unnecessary stress;
- reduced chance of practical agreement;
- avoidable third surveyor referrals.
The building owner often pays the immediate bill, but both owners suffer the consequences.
How to protect yourself
Look for a surveyor who:
- offers clear fees;
- explains the process simply;
- supports agreed surveyor appointments where suitable;
- focuses on real risks;
- challenges excessive fees;
- has a reputation for moving matters forward.